Highlights Annual Updates The DOL must adjust its civil penalty amounts for inflation each year. Possible Penalties The DOL may assess these penalties on employers that violate federal laws that the DOL enforces, such as the FLSA, ERISA, the FMLA and the OSH Act. Compliance Review To minimize potential liability, employers should review their compliance with laws enforced by the DOL.           Effective Date Jan. 15, 2020 The increased amounts apply…

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced Dec. 27 that it is doubling the minimum annual percentage rate for random controlled substances testing for commercial motor vehicle drivers. The current rate of 25% of the average number of driver positions will be increased to 50%. The FMCSA is required to increase testing when data from a calendar year shows a reported positive rate of 1% or more. In 2018, the administration’s Drug and Alcohol…

Use the guidelines below to help prepare for an OSHA inspection. What triggers an OSHA inspection? An OSHA inspection can be triggered by any of the following: Planned inspection Complaint National/local emphasis program (e.g., lead, amputations) Site-specific targeting program (high incident rate sites) Follow-up on a previous inspection Imminent danger Fatality What comprises an OSHA inspection? Recordkeeping OSHA 300 logs from the last five years (or records of work-related injuries and illnesses) OSHA 301 forms…

The Importance of Prompt Claims Reporting The rising cost of claims presents a significant challenge for employers today. However, there is a simple strategy that can significantly reduce your claims costs: report all claims promptly. In fact, the sooner a claim is reported, the lower the cost is likely to be. Beyond cost, reporting claims promptly can help avoid unnecessary conflict with insurance companies, ensure a proper investigation, preserve employee morale and maintain compliance. Minimize…

The frequency and severity of cyber attacks continues to grow, and businesses of all sizes should consider their risks during National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Make sure to ask these four questions when you create a cyber security plan at your business: 1. Who is in charge of updating hardware and software at your business? Is there a plan in place to roll out updates, and who has administrative access to your systems? 2. If…